The Day the Earth Stood Still

Starring: Michael Rennie, Patricia Neal, Hugh Marlowe, Sam Jaffe, Billy Gray
Directed by: Robert Wise
Rating: G
Genre: Drama, Science Fiction
1951

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: An alien spacecraft lands in Washington, D.C. and the alien visitor (Michael Rennie) warns the globe to stop their violent behavior before the planet is destroyed by nuclear weapons. However, when he is accidentally shot, his peaceful message becomes an ultimatum.

Review:

Tim: This is a landmark science fiction movie that has stood the test of time. This is such a classic movie, and it was so influential to the sci-fi genre. I love that this movie sets out to tell a very interesting story, but it also includes commentary on the political landscape in the 1950s. This movie uses alien invasion as a means to hold up a mirror to the nuclear arms race between the United States and the Soviet Union. The fact that the movie works on both of these levels is just astounding.

This is today regarded as a classic film because it is so incredibly well made. The special effects are decent for the 1950s, but aren't mind-blowing. They work well enough to keep the story moving. The characters are believable, and their story is very interesting. I liked the portrayal of Klaatu by Michael Rennie. I saw how he could blend in, yet there is something about him not quite right. Gort is also fairly impressive for a 1951 movie. I was also very impressed with how slowly and deliberately the movie unfolds. There is absolutely no rush from director Robert Wise, and there is actually very little action. I think that today, far too many movies cram in too much action to try to entertain the audience, instead of focusing first on telling a great story. I know I often complain a movie needs more action, but that is because it is deficient in other areas, and that's a quick fix. This movie has very little action or thrilling scenes, and yet, it is still eminently captivating. I was on the edge of my seat throughout much of the movie.

The Day the Earth Stood Still is a classic science fiction movie that is so important to see, especially if you are a fan of the genre. I really enjoyed this movie, and I liked seeing the impact this movie had on subsequent films for decades. This is a great movie.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008), The War of the Worlds